Brandie Frommelt on What to Expect at Bikram Yoga

If you've been thinking of starting a yoga program, you may be curious about the specific discipline of Bikram yoga, also known as "hot yoga."  As you can probably guess, hot yoga classes are held in rooms that can be as hot as 105 degrees Fahrenheit, with 40% humidity. Although this may sound like a new form of torture, there are actually many benefits to doing yoga under these conditions.  The intense heat means that your body will be more flexible, which is good for your muscles, bones, and internal organs, and it will help your body flush out waste products, impurities, and toxins.  It can help relieve the symptoms of some kinds of chronic disease, and it also helps to improve blood flow and the distribution of oxygen throughout the body.

 

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Are you ready to begin hot yoga so you can reap all of these benefits?  If so, here's what to expect on your first day…

You'll want to bring a big bottle of water so you can stay hydrated, a yoga mat and a towel to put on the mat, and a small towel to wipe any sweat off of your face and neck. 

 

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You might want to invest in some clothes that will keep the sweat away from your skin.  At the very least, wear clothes that aren't too baggy, or they'll get in your way.

It is hard to say what to expect in your specific class.  Your teacher will have a style all of his/her own.  For instance, they might prefer loud music, quiet, relaxing music, or no music at all. 

 

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Remember not to push yourself too hard, take long, deep breaths, and drink lots of water.  After class, make sure you drink a lot of water and are OK to drive.

Your first try at Bikram yoga will be challenging, but there are many benefits if you stick with it. If you have any questions about Bikram yoga, contact Brandie Frommelt.

What Makes Brandie Frommelt's Bikram Yoga Studio Special?

Brandie Frommelt's Bikram Yoga studio has only the best of the best when it comes to Bikram yoga teachers.  Bikram instructors undergo intense training, and must be certified before they can teach.  The instructor has to be able to recite, verbatim, the Bikram dialogue for the entire 90 minute class.  And of course, they must be qualified to teach the 26 postures and the two breathing exercises.

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It is important that the instructors know what they are doing.  Bikram yoga can be very challenging and intense, even for the most physically fit athlete.  This type of yoga not only takes a combination of strength, balance, and flexibility, but Bikram yoga is performed under extreme conditions.

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The class is held in a room that is heated to 105 degrees with 40% humidity.  This high heat warms the muscles, allowing for a deeper and safer workout.  It also serves to remove toxins from the body, prevent injuries, reduce stress, promote relaxation, increase blood circulation, improve strength and flexibility, and it helps to heal any injuries you may have.  It also teaches the body to use oxygen properly.  Bikram yoga can even reduce the symptoms of many chronic diseases, such as arthritis, if practiced regularly, at least three times a week.  It will also result in an increase in muscle tone and strength, and eventually even weight loss. Mentally, Bikram yoga can increase clarity and concentration.

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It may seem dangerous to do any kind of exercise under such conditions, but as long as you stay well hydrated and you don't have a serious medical condition, it is safe.  This is another reason it is important to have a certified Bikram instructor running your class – they know how to keep you safe, as well as knowing how to help you reap the most benefit from this popular type of yoga.